Brita Heilimo – A glazed stoneware vase – Arabia, Finland 1960’s

A narrow tapering vase in white and grey glaze with a short neck, spouted. Designed by Brita Heilimo and executed by Arabia in the 1960’s.

About Brita Heilimo

Brita Heilimo (Jakobstad 1928 – ) is a distinguished Finnish ceramic artist renowned for her contributions to mid-20th-century design, particularly through her work with Arabia, Finland’s esteemed ceramics manufacturer.

Heilimo studied at the Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture for five years completing porcelain painting skills in Ceramics Department after which she started working for Arabia Department of Industrial Art in 1952.

Her tenure at Arabia, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s, was marked by the creation of distinctive ceramic pieces that exemplify the era’s design aesthetics. Heilimo’s creations often showcase a minimalist approach, focusing on the inherent beauty of the materials and the purity of form. Her use of earthy glazes and organic shapes aligns with the Scandinavian design principles of simplicity, functionality, and connection to nature.
Her work demand a sustained interest and appreciation among collectors and enthusiasts. For instance, her ceramic lanterns and vessels have been listed in auction houses, reflecting the enduring appeal of her designs.

Examples of her chamote and earthenware vases, wall tiles and decorative items designed by Brita Heilimo were in Arabia’s exhibitons in the 1950’s i.a. in Gothenburg, Helsingborg. Her association with Arabia places her among a prestigious group of designers who have significantly influenced Finnish ceramic art.